Postdoctoral Fellow in fuel modelling and behaviour

• 03 October 2026
• 100%
• Permanent position
• Villigen PSI

The Paul Scherrer Institute PSI is the largest research institute for natural and engineering sciences within Switzerland. We perform cutting-edge research in the fields of future technologies, energy and climate, health innovation and fundamentals of nature. By performing fundamental and applied research, we work on sustainable solutions for major challenges facing society, science and economy. PSI is committed to the training of future generations. Therefore, about one quarter of our staff are post-docs, post-graduates or apprentices. Altogether, PSI employs 2300 people. 

For the Reactor Physics and Thermal-Hydraulics Laboratory we are looking for a

Your tasks

Your research will focus on the main issues and current safety criteria for post-operation dry storage of nuclear fuels in the Swiss context, in particular:

• Improvement of fuel performance codes and models relevant for both reactor operation and dry storage conditions 
• Development of coupled workflows linking fuel performance simulations to other codes
• Advanced modelling and simulation of ATF concepts, in particular Cr-coated cladding and/or other advanced fuel concepts, including implementation and validation of new models 
• Contribution to international activities and supervision of students 
• Preparation of scientific publications and technical reports on research results

Your profile

• PhD degree in nuclear engineering (or related discipline) 
• Strong background and interest in nuclear fuel behaviour, fuel performance modelling, and materials under irradiation 
• Solid experience with fuel performance codes (e.g., FRAPCON/FRAPTRAN, TRANSURANUS, FALCON, BISON, OFFBEAT, etc.) 
• Experience with validation, benchmarking, and interpretation of fuel related experimental results 
• High proficiency in programming and scripting capabilities 
• Good knowledge of numerical methods for scientific computing would be an asset 
• Fluency in spoken and written English. Proficiency in German is not required but would be beneficial

We offer

Our institution is based on an interdisciplinary, innovative and dynamic collaboration. You will profit from a systematic training on the job, in addition to personal development possibilities and our pronounced vocational training culture. If you wish to optimally combine work and family life or other personal interests, we are able to support you with our modern employment conditions and the on-site infrastructure.

For further information, please contact Dr Alessandro Scolaro, phone +41 56 310 29 87. 

Please submit your application online by 15 November 2026 (including motivation letter, list of publications and addresses of referees) for the position as a Postdoctoral Fellow (index no. 4107-29881).

Paul Scherrer Institut, People & Culture, Serdal Varol, 5232 Villigen PSI, Switzerland

www.psi.ch